Ford recalls several vehicles for door latch issue

Ford Motor Company announced a recall of some of their more popular vehicles for a door latch issue. More specifically, they will be recalling the 2013 Ford Taurus and Lincoln MKS sedans, as well as the Ford Explorer crossover utility vehicle (the Explorer rides on the same Volvo-derived platform as the aforementioned sedans). All three vehicles were produced at the Chicago assembly plant from November 29 to December 12 of last year. In all, over 13,100 vehicles will be recalled.

The issue that has triggered the Ford recall is that the door latch, more specifically the child door lock, could become deactivated by merely opening or closing a door. Normally, one could activate or deactivate by manually switching it on or off (with a finger or a key). If the child safety lock becomes deactivate, it could increase the risk of a child exiting the vehicle while in motion.

The issue first arose back on December 6, 2012, whenever a latch supplier noticed that the safety lock had a “lower than expected” child safety lock retention torque. A stop-ship was issued by Ford to the Chicago assembly plant the next day, and accelerated tests of their assembly lines followed for the next few months.

The latest Ford recall will have dealership technicians inspect both the door latches, as well as the child safety locks, and will replace the parts if necessary. If you would like more information, or to schedule a schedule appointment, a registered owner could contact their local Ford dealership. The recall is expected to start right away.